Mullingar firm has the robotic drive for success

A Mullingar company that specialises in robotic systems scooped the top prize at the 2009 County Westmeath Enterprise Awards on Thursday last in the Radisson Hotel, Athlone.Robotic and Drive Services Ltd took the top honours beating off stiff competition from six other finalists, of which five were from this end of the county.Established in 2005, the winners, RD Services Ltd assemble, supply, install and service robotic and variable speed drive systems and control and safety systems to businesses. During 2009, the business expanded into the refurbishment of robots and has developed a new training facility to train people in robot programming and maintenance. Robotic systems are now used in most manufacturing industries while variable speed drives control the speed of motors and machinery used on manufacturing plants.Owners of the company Ken and Sharon McNevin and Stephen Nolan were presented with a special Celtic Roots bog oak trophy to mark the achievement and they now go on to represent Westmeath in the regional competition to take place in October. Successful regional winners will go on to the national final to be held on November 10 next in Dublin Castle.Speaking at the event, MC RTE broadcaster Bryan Dobson told the audience that the judges plumped for the Mullingar company after being impressed by their technology and innovation, married with their business skills and entrepreneurial flair.A delighted owner Ken McNevin told the assembled audience they were surprised and delighted to win the overall award. "When we set up in 2005 we were very green but with the help of Westmeath County Enterprise Board funding, mentoring and advice it made us a better company. We thank them for that."In congratulating the winner, Christine Charlton, CEO, Westmeath County Enterprise Board outlined the excellent record which Westmeath entrepreneurs have had to date in the National Enterprise Awards. In 2003, Westmeath County Winner, Grouse Lodge Recording Studio Ltd., Rosemount won first place at the coveted National Enterprise Awards and went on to win joint first place the World Young Business Achievers Awards in Bulgaria in 2004. She went on to wish RD Services good luck at the National finals and thanked all finalists involved in this year's competition for taking the time to make their applications and meet the judges.She went on to say Westmeath County Enterprise Board deals with around 4,000 enquiries, pointing out small business in the lifeblood of the economy and for their drive, determination, work and employment they deserve to be recognised.Meanwhile, Chairperson of Westmeath County Enterprise Board Frances McGuckian commented that even in challenging times enterprising spirit is alive and well and now, more than ever, the country needs entrepreneurs to create jobs and keep the economy afloat. She pointed out that Enterprise Board is a one-stop-shop for small businesses and she hoped the Government recognised the fact and nurture the boards nationwide.This year the runner-up award went to Kilbeggan-based company Critical Healthcare Ltd, who employ eight people selling a comprehensive range of medical supplies to the pre-hospital market, ambulance and all emergency care providers. They also manufacture and install oxygen pipelines in ambulances and provide an ambulance preventative maintenance and emergency breakdown service.Mairin Gallagher from The International College of Hair and Beauty by Mairin G was the other big winner on the day taking home the Best Woman in Business Award on the day. The Mullingar woman identified a niche in the market to train beauticians and hairdressers having operated a successful beauty salon business, Profile Nail and Beauty Clinic in the town. She later established the International College of Hair and Beauty by Mairin G offering part-time and full-time CIBTAC Diploma Courses in Beauty.The other finalists at the 2009 awards were presented with a specially commissioned pottery plaque made by Clonmacnoise Pottery's Damian O'Brien including Fifth Avenue Face & Body Clinic in Mullingar, owned by sisters Grainne and Karen Keegan.Former international athlete Cormac Finnerty was also recognised for his business Mind's I Graphic Design Ltd, set up in 2002, along with MOHH Academy in Athlone, the brainchild of Maeve and Michael O'Healy-Harte, who provide hairdressing courses for beginners, improvers and qualified stylists.The other finalist was Jacqueline and Bernard Flynn from Mullingar Crystal, who supply personalised, contemporary crystal awards, trophies and prizes directly to the corporate and sports club sector.